INSIDER'S PICK: 2011 CHATEAU DE LA VIEILLE TOUR BORDEAUX SUPERIEUR $14.99

The big 'news' in Bordeaux is that the approaching red wine releases from the cool, wet and challenging 2013 vintage are inconsistent at best, and among the weaker vintages of the last 20 years. Most of the focus is on the famous named 1st-5th Growth wines, but the problem extends down to the everyday drinkers as well. The good vintages are also easier vintages, and the quality extends down to the less noble houses. Tougher vintages mean these lesser houses may not have the resources to salvage any quality from fruit that isn't ripening well or threatened by rot. The good news? There are still plenty of very fine wines from the last four vintages that can fit anyone's budget, and they will fill the gaps in the cellar for several years more.
This is a unique wine for this price point, in that it is dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon, where the majority of sub-$20 range Bordeaux tend to be Merlot as it is usually less expensive to maintain. The aroma definitely carries the Cabernet, with distinctive dark cassis and pencil lead aromas at first and the subtle softer red fruits from the Merlot emerging after a while open. The mouthfeel is equally full and dark, lots of currant and black pepper across the palate and through the finish, and still quite youthful. A very pleasurable 'anytime' Bordeaux for those that like a very traditional style, and one that could easily have more to show over the next 4-6 years.